Photography Poses

When taking a portrait photo there are many things that need to be considered when deciding on suitable portrait poses for the subject. Some key determinants of the pose chosen are the type of portrait, the personality of the subjects, the subjects body shape and the setting.

It is usually expected that the photographer, especially experience photographers, will know which pose is suitable for the situation and how to create that pose.  However, it is often difficult to convey to the subject the best way to pose, what poses are available and what is involved.  This is where a Swipe File becomes absolutely essential.

So, what is a swipe file? A swipe file is a scrap book containing an array of photos. A great way to create a swipe file is with photos you have taken.  However, this is difficult if you are just starting out and it can also be limiting as it is also important to include other photos and images that you can learn from and expand your skills. A great place to get pictures to add to your file is to cut out pictures of photos that you like in magazines or photocopy them if you do not want to cut them out.

Many photographers study them in great depth to learn the detail in the pose.  Such as where the hand is positioned, on what leg is their weight. They are often a very useful way to communicate the intended pose with your subject.

A great idea is sort the file into sections for easier use; such as family group photos, couple photos and photos of individuals. This enables the photos to be found easily.

Although studying photos is important the best way to learn what photo poses work and which ones do not is through practice and the best way to practice is on family and friends.  Not only will this help you learn how to express what you want the subject to do but it will give you some photos to expand your swipe file.

One of the most popular, lucrative and important events for photographers are Weddings.  Wedding photography poses are a key aspect of wedding photos that need to be mastered in order to ensure that the client is happy and fantastic photos are produced of the event.

Here are 7 basic tips to create great wedding photography poses:

1. 1. You must ensure that you have consulted the couple and know what photos they want to get and then you can create a run list.  You must take into account where they want the photos, how they want the photos to look, who they want the photos with and their must have photos.
2. 2. Ensure that you take the couples wishes into account.  If they want relaxed, candid photos and do not want to spend hours away from guests taking photos. Don’t make them.
3. 3. Have some jokes and stories on hand to get the photography subjects to relax and smile.  “Say Cheese” gets old and ineffective after a while.
4. 4. You do not have to get all the photos during and after the wedding.  For example, you can get photos of the bride and her family and groom and his family beforehand.  This creates less need to fit so many photos into a short period and can lead to a greater range of photos being created.
5. 5. Make sure you describe and get in writing exactly what the client will receive from you. This leads to realistic expectation from both parties.
6. 6. If possible you can use props. For example, it is a great idea to have an assortment of umbrellas that can be used in photos.  They can help create great photos and also means that outdoor photos can still be taken, even if it is raining,
7. 7. Always ensure that the people in the photos are relaxed and comfortable with the poses.  Never put the subjects in a position they are not happy with.

The steps above are to help you get started with wedding photography,  For more information on photography posing a great resource is Photography Posing Secrets.

Whether you are a professional or a novice photographer one of the key areas to mastering photography are photography poses. This is especially the case when taking portrait photos as the human body is one of the more difficult things to photograph.

Preparation is key to any photo shoot, even if it just for family.  Have a plan of who is going to be in the photos together, how they are going to be posed and where the photos are going to be taken. You can always deviate from this but it essential to be prepared so you do not miss a shot and you increase productivity. For professional shoots ensure you have a run sheet so you tick off every photo and get all the photos requested by the clients.

When photographing a person it is imperative that you put the subject or subjects at ease. A great way to help with this is to have some jokes and funny stories at hand. Also ensure that you never put the people in a position they do not feel comfortable with.

One of the many aspects of getting a great shot is not only the subject but the surrounds as well.  Use light to your advantage.  A beautiful backdrop is often the answer to creating a fantastic photo. However, ensure that there is nothing in the background that will distract from the subject.

Don’t just take one photo of someone in a particular pose. Taking many photos of the same scene can be helpful in getting a great shot. This is especially helpful for group photos as the chances that one person is blinking during a particular shot are increased.

If you are doing a professional shoot or even just to help you with family photographs having a swipe file of different photography poses that you like is a fantastic idea.  Even if you do not have previous photos you have taken you can collect photos you like from magazines. It is great as a reference tool for both you and those you are photographing. It is also a great idea to get clients to bring in pictures they like.

Just remember that even if you do not get shots that you are happy with straight away, practice is the key to improving. Make sure you review your photos so you can analyze what you can get better at next time.